The inauguration of fashion trends
Webster defines inaugural as "marking a beginning." When most people hear this word, they immediately think about a presidential inauguration, and they associate the word with a new political beginning. In a way, however, this day marked a new start in fashion. Whether or not one agrees with the president's politics, few criticize the Obama family's fashion sense.
This year, the main Inaugural Day theme was about being classy, yet bold. Purple popped up everywhere. During the parade, Sasha Obama wore a bluish-purple Kate Spade coat and Malia Obama sported a violet J. Crew coat. Michelle Obama donned aubergine (dark purple) gloves also from J. Crew. She paired these bold gloves with a Thom Browne navy coat and Cathy Waterman earrings.
Later in the day, she changed into neutral boots, a cotton cardigan and a J. Crew belt, transforming her look to elegantly casual. But the main focus was not her clothes; instead, everyone seemed to rave about her thick, full bangs. Complementing her outfit, her tresses exuded a trendy, modern First Lady vibe.
During President Obama’s swearing-in-ceremony, blues and purples colored the room. The President wore a navy suit with a blue striped tie. Michelle harmonized with her husband in a navy silk jacquard Reed Krakoff dress with a navy cardigan. Malia wore a purple, pleated shift dress from H&M. Her sister, Sasha, wore a Plenty by Tracy Reese Mariposa lace dress in plum with a gold belt. The whole family embodied a classic 1950s family.
At the Commander in Chief Ball, political leaders appeared in their most formal attire. The president himself wore a traditional black tux with a white button down shirt and a white bow tie, as he did in 2009.
Michelle swept the floor in a persimmon Jason Wu dress made from chiffon and velvet with a cross halter neckline. The flowing fabric cinched at the waist resembled her ivory dress from 2009, also designed by Jason Wu.
Performers classically displayed their personal styles. Beyoncé expressed her signature mix of power and refinement in a sable Pucci gown covered with a black Christian Dior coat. Kelly Clarkson supported color of the day: purple. She wore a plumb flared Robert Rodriquez coat with a violet scarf. Alicia Keys copied the First Lady's passionate palate in a red, open-back Michael Kors gown. As usual, Katy Perry stood out in her black and orange Rodarte jacket, accessorized with a black fedora.
The Obamas are known for their support of American fashion designers. The Inauguration showed people embracing traditional styles, but combining these with modern pieces.